Gradam Ceoil TG4

Bio

Over the past 30 years, Niall Vallely has established himself as one of Ireland’s most significant musicians and composers. Born in Armagh in 1970, he began learning concertina at the age of seven, taught by his parents Brian and Eithne Vallely, founders of the Armagh Pipers’ Club.

Based in Cork since 1988, Niall studied music at UCC before embarking on an international performance career, recording and touring with Nomos, Buille, Karan Casey, Paddy Keenan, Tim O’Brien and Cassandra Wilson.

Renowned for his distinctive concertina style and acclaimed compositions, his tunes have appeared on more than 80 albums and become standards in sessions worldwide. His larger-scale works have been commissioned by TG4, RTÉ, BBC, Cork Opera House, Crash Ensemble, Boston Pops Orchestra and others.

In 2018, Niall received a PhD in composition from UCC. He continues to create, perform and collaborate internationally. The summer of 2026 will see the release of a new album “Sun Lines” with Congolese guitarist Niwel Tsumbu and American fiddle player Liz Knowles as well as a collaboration between the trio and the Irish Chamber Orchestra at Kilkenny Arts Festival.